Audi confirmed as latest CarPlay partner for 2015 launch

Audi has confirmed it will be adding support for Apple's CarPlay vehicle technology to some of its models, with plans for a launch sometime in 2015.

Audi says that the addition of CarPlay will happen thanks to "intensive dialog between the Audi development lab in Silicon Valley and Apple" and added that major features of CarPlay will be "integrated into the Audi Multi Media Interface." Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, Board Member for Technical Development at Audi, stated:

User friendliness and low distraction are important parameters for integrating these functions. Data security also plays a vital role. We are separating the vehicle-related functions from the infotainment features, thereby securing the data against unauthorized access. The customer has to give express consent for the use of data generated in the vehicle.

Audi joins Honda, Hyundai, Volvo, Mercedes Benz and Ferrari as supporters of CarPlay. Audi will also support the newly announced Android Auto technology from Google. What do you think of Audi jumping in with Apple on this venture?